At an early age, Xavier displayed an interest in music. While initially pulled towards learning keyboards, this inclination served only as a steppingstone for discovering his true passion - drums and latin percussion. When still in high school, he began experimenting with latin rhythms on assorted household items (cans, car rims, etc.) as well as on bongos and congas, and made his "debut" as a multi-percussionist. In due time however, his influences would take on a more "rock" bent since he felt that a latin percussionist would not have as central a role in a rock band. Xavier officially began his drum schooling with his friend and professor Cesar Perez. It was he who encouraged Xavier to study at the school of arts (The School of Rock and Rap) in Bogota, Colombia. He attended for 6 months under the tutelage of learned teachers and acquired the drumming rudiments. Despite considering himself an amateur, he was certain that with his acquired strong and solid base he could one day become great. Little did he know he would shortly meet a largely influential future private teacher - Italo Lamboglia (Shakira's ex-drummer). Xavier set aside his academic studies for a year in order to fully dedicate himself to refining what he had previously learned at the school of arts. Since finances proved insufficient for the purchase of a drum set, Xavier was forced to innovate and create one out of plastic paint cans and an old bass and snare drum. He would also be given some broken cymbals and a bass drum pedal by his teacher Cesar. This became an important period for Xavier as during this period he developed many of his drumming and musical abilities such as the musical ear - listening for different tones whenever he struck the paint cans in order to simulate toms for example - improvisation, rhythm, meter, time and groove. After 2 years of study, Xavier, along with his brother David and two other friends formed a band where he explored progressive rock/metal and odd time signatures. In the years that followed, Xavier involved himself in numerous side-projects; cover bands in particular. During this time, Dream Theatre would play an influential role, and upon discovering the possibilities of double kick, he dedicated himself to its study. Xavier grew as a musician and gained confidence playing before audiences at bars, schools and universities, hotels, and even arenas situated in his native city. He at last consolidated himself as a solid live drummer. Other interests soon captured his attention such as singing and choir lessons. He would also come full circle and take up keyboard classes. He learned musical notation at another academy to which he belonged to and it was there where he began to teach drumming. His professor, Italo Lamboglia re-entered his life and taught X privately. Xavier gained a deeper understanding of drum technique and was introduced to other musical styles like jazz, blues, bossa nova and funk. He of course greatly honed his progressive rock and metal chops as well. This level of exposure would expand his musical influences. In the meantime, h e familiarized himself with, and learned from, sound engineers focusing on live sound, production, mics, and recording techniques. Programs like Sonar, Cubase and Pro Tools would become part of Xavier's resume. In 2005, Xavier decided to seize the potential opportunities and relocated to the U.S. with his family. Months later, he would audition for Alitheia.